Hosts: Presidential debates costly, but worth it

DAYTON, Ohio (AP) — Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio, will host the first general election presidential debate in September and is absorbing the consequences — good and bad — that come with it.

The Dayton Daily News reports (http://bit.ly/29oMBQu ) that hosting a debate is expensive, time-consuming and fraught with potential problems. Officials say they’re hoping the state and other universities will help with event security.

University officials believe the debate will cost between $5 million and $6 million. The university has paid the debate commission $1.9 million to stage and produce the debate. Those who have hosted past presidential and vice presidential debates say the cost is worth it.

Hofstra University spokeswoman Melissa Connolly says the exposure the university received for hosting two debates is only rivaled by a major sports championship.